Posted on Dec 30
Josh Allen to start for Bills before quickly exiting to preserve consecutive starts streak
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Josh Allen to start for Bills but will have limited playing time in Week 18 game against the Patriots.
Why it matters: With the No. 2 seed in the AFC already secured, the Bills have opted to rest their star quarterback and prioritize his health heading into the playoffs.
What's new: Coach Sean McDermott has confirmed that Allen will start the game to maintain his consecutive starts streak but will come off the field quickly.
Yes, but: While Allen's consecutive starts streak is important to him, the team wants to ensure his well-being ahead of the postseason, where they have high aspirations.
- McDermott on Allen's importance: "He wants to be out there with his teammates and so he will be out there for a very, very short-lived amount of time and then he'll be off rather quickly there."
The bottom line: The Bills are taking a cautious approach with their franchise quarterback, prioritizing his long-term availability over a meaningless regular-season finale.
What to watch: Keep an eye on how the rest of the team performs without Allen, as this game serves as an opportunity for other players to showcase their skills.
What's next: After the game against the Patriots, the Bills will shift their focus to the playoffs, where they aim to make a deep run and potentially contend for a Super Bowl title.
- McDermott emphasized the team's goals: "We have our sights set on bigger things than just this one game."
By the numbers: Allen currently holds the longest active consecutive starts streak among quarterbacks, having started 114 consecutive games since his rookie year.
Our thought bubble: Resting Allen allows the Bills to mitigate any potential injury risks and ensures their star quarterback is in prime condition for the postseason.
Zoom In: Allen's durability and toughness have been commendable throughout his career, as he hasn't missed a start despite battling various injuries.
Zoom Out: The decision to limit Allen's playing time reflects the growing trend in the NFL of teams resting key players in games with no playoff implications.
- Other playoff-bound teams, such as the Chiefs and Packers, have also made similar decisions to prioritize player health and rest ahead of the postseason.
As the regular season comes to a close, the focus for the Bills shifts towards their playoff aspirations and the pursuit of a Super Bowl championship. With Josh Allen's limited playing time in Week 18, the team aims to protect their star quarterback while providing other players an opportunity to shine on the field. The ultimate goal for the Bills is to make a deep playoff run and contend for the elusive Lombardi Trophy.